A Story Tells

Across Continents: Maida's Journey of Values, Authenticity, Self-Love, and Embracing Vulnerability

A Story Tells

Maida's university journey traverses three continents, encompassing experiences in Chile, the UK, and Hong Kong. In Chile, university life pulsated with the rhythm of academia intertwined with the vibrant energy of salsa clubs and community events. Amidst the camaraderie of student life, Maida forged connections and embraced the vivacious spirit of her surroundings.  It was in bustling Hong Kong where Maida's narrative took a dramatic turn. Here, the pursuit of academic excellence and professional success in banking and consulting overshadowed extracurricular activities and the development of soft skills.  Maida talks about how living in Hong Kong prompted her to reevaluate her values, leading to a constant internal dialogue about whether to adhere to societal norms or stay true to her own beliefs.  Maida's realization came during her exchange in the UK, where she reconnected with herself and learned to embrace her individual path. In the UK, Maida embarked on a journey of eclectic exploration, balancing academic pursuits with the joyous sway of Latin Social Dance.  This voyage led her towards incorporating more diverse extracurricular activities in universities to develop a broader skill set beyond the job market's demands. Maida’s describes her journey as a non-traditional graduate from business school, highlighting her Latin American mindset of following one's dreams and heart. She contrasts this with the competitive nature and emphasis on traditional career paths in Asian education. She stresses the importance of staying true to oneself amidst societal pressures to conform, acknowledging that everyone's journey is unique. Maida playfully jests about managing unconventional clubs, like one centered around instant noodles, can cultivate skills such as people management, event planning, and marketing, which may not be developed through traditional avenues. When offering advice to others considering traveling or moving abroad, Maida shares her way of staying rooted in identity and values. She shares how journaling has helped her maintain this connection with herself, enabling her to engage with different perspectives while safeguarding her authenticity. Maida also encourages flexibility and resilience, reassuring others that it's okay if plans don't unfold as expected and that they can always start anew. Despite initially feeling anxious and overwhelmed by the future and societal expectations, she found solace in mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, and journaling, which helped her stay present. Though anxiety still lingered at times, she learned to manage it by recognizing when fear of the future was speaking and grounding herself in the present through breathing exercises and self-reflection. Embracing vulnerability, inspired by Brené Brown's book "Daring Greatly" and TED talks, she sees discomfort as a path to growth and authenticity. Powered by Firstory Hosting

When I Look Different: From Chile to Hong Kong, Conformity or Showcasing

A Story Tells

This episode delves into the journey of individuals like Magdalena, who navigate the transition from their native culture to a new and diverse environment. It explores the tension between conforming to the societal norms of their adopted home in Hong Kong and showcasing their unique identity rooted in their Chilean heritage.  Magdalena, hails from Chile and has been calling Hong Kong home for nearly five years. With a business degree now in hand, Magdalena describes herself in three vivid words: curious, determined, and positive. Her insatiable curiosity leads her to museums, books, and new places, always eager to learn something new. Her determination drives her to pursue her goals relentlessly, while her positive outlook helps her find silver linings even in challenging times. In Chile, making friends was a breeze—striking up a conversation while grocery shopping could quickly lead to an invitation for lunch. But in Hong Kong, friendships unfold more slowly, requiring patience and effort. The city’s competitive spirit, evident in both academic and professional realms, was a stark contrast to her more relaxed experience back home. Magdalena found herself swept up in this relentless drive for success, which, while initially overwhelming, eventually fueled her own ambitions. Despite these differences, Magdalena finds ways to keep her Chilean traditions alive. She treasures the Chilean national holiday on September 18th, a day filled with traditional food, music, and dance. Moreover,Magdalena has found a unique way to bridge her two worlds through her Instagram account. As an aspiring content creator, she shares her life in Hong Kong and her travels with a diverse audience. By producing content mainly in English with Spanish subtitles, she connects with both local and international followers. Her posts offer a glimpse into her life as a Latina in Hong Kong and the rich culture of Chile, creating a cultural exchange that resonates with her audience. Magdalena’s experience in Hong Kong has been a blend of challenges and opportunities. She leverages her unique background to secure scholarships and often finds herself as the first Chilean many locals meet. She sees this as a chance to make a positive impression and proudly share her culture. Living abroad and putting herself out there on social media has taught Magdalena the power of vulnerability and confidence. Speaking to her camera in public, a once daunting task, has become second nature. She embraces her distinctive style, often wearing bold colors and prints that stand out in Hong Kong’s more muted fashion landscape. This flair for fashion reflects her vibrant personality and helps her make a memorable impression. Maida’s instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/notxsofia?igsh=MXVycWo4MGxqZ25veA== Powered by Firstory Hosting

Zening's Adventure: Unleashing Curiosity in Campus Chaos, Battling Bureaucracy, and Chasing Purpose

A Story Tells

Initially consumed by the rigors of high school academia, Zening's transition to university life marks a pivotal moment of self-discovery. Embracing extracurricular activities with fervor, he dives headfirst into the vibrant tapestry of campus life, from the drama club to leadership roles in the mainland undergraduate association. Driven by a thirst for connection and understanding, Zening becomes a catalyst for change, spearheading initiatives to bridge the divide between mainland and local student communities. Zening's journey also sheds light on his experiences navigating bureaucracy and interacting with high-ranking officials in his role at the China Engagement Office. Working within a small-scale office, he finds himself thrust into the forefront of engaging with notable figures, often tasked with representing his institution to mainland guests, despite grappling with feelings of inadequacy and bureaucratic complexities. In Zening's narrative, there's a reflection on the uncertainty of knowing exactly what to do or pursue. However, the message highlights the belief that despite this uncertainty, there's always a way to find positivity or the best path forward from one's current position. Additionally, Zening emphasizes the importance of maintaining benevolent intentions towards others, which not only fosters goodwill but also empowers individuals to provide meaningful guidance and support to those around them. Armed with a bold vision for the future, Zening sets his sights on a career at the intersection of technology and entrepreneurship. Powered by Firstory Hosting

My Artwork & Me

A Story Tells

As an art student, my journey has been one of self-discovery and exploration. From a young age, I found solace in sketching and painting, transforming blank walls into my personal canvas. Gradually, art became more than just a hobby; it became my passion. For me, art is about creating a world of my own. I love bringing my imagination to life, turning characters, stories, and emotions into tangible forms through drawings, videos, and sculptures. It's a way for me to explore my innermost thoughts and feelings, navigating personal struggles and societal issues along the way. One artist who deeply inspires me is Luke Chang Chin Wai, a Hong Kong artist with a multifaceted identity. Through his work, he challenges societal norms and provokes thought, using art as a tool for social commentary and self-expression. Approaching graduation, the uncertainty of the future looms large. However, I've come to define myself not just as an artist, but as a lifelong explorer. Art isn't just a career path for me; it's a journey of self-discovery and growth. While the road ahead may be uncertain, I'm determined to continue creating art that reflects my experiences, challenges norms, and fosters connection with others. One recent piece of art I created during a residency program in South Africa was a ceramic sculpture inspired by traditional African masks. Titled "I Attract Me Myself," it explores themes of identity, protection, and interconnectedness. Through this piece and others, I've discovered the joy of creating art not just for accolades or grades, but as a form of meditation and self-expression. Reflecting on my journey, I've encountered challenges, including struggles with body image and societal expectations. Growing up in Hong Kong, where there's immense pressure to conform to certain standards, I faced body shaming and insecurities. These experiences shaped my artistic expression, inspiring me to explore themes of identity, self-acceptance, and empowerment through my work. Powered by Firstory Hosting